Our golf writer takes a look at the Nedbank Golf Challenge set to get underway at the Gary Player Country Club from 9 November – 12 November.
The Nedbank Golf Challenge, often hailed as ‘Africa’s Major’, marks the exciting penultimate stop on the European Tour calendar. First teeing off in 1981 and initially following a 12-man invitational format until 2013, this prestigious event has since blossomed to become a vital part of the Rolex Series – attracting a competitive and diverse field.
While some top contenders like Spaniards Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia have chosen to sit this one out, the fierce Justin Rose aims to keep his sights on the season-ending Race to Dubai crown at this spectacular South African venue.
The Nedbank Golf Challenge | 9 November – 12 November | Gary Player Country Club
Set at the iconic Gary Player Country Club, this par-72 course stretches a challenging 7,831 yards. Though the high altitude somewhat eases the course’s length, players still need power off the tee complemented by pinpoint accuracy. The thick Kikuyu rough demands precision, rewarding those who keep their balls in play — potentially paving the way for notably low scores, weather conditions permitting.
Tommy Fleetwood currently leads the Race to Dubai, looking to build on his lead against Justin Rose’s recent resurgence. Englishman Tyrell Hatton is another to watch in this week’s field. South African fans have plenty to cheer for with seasoned pros like Brandon Grace, Louis Oosthuizen, and Charl Schwartzel in the mix. However, it could be the talented newcomers, Dylan Frittelli and Christiaan Porteous, who hold the key to bringing a Nedbank crown home to South Africa for the first time since Trevor Immelman’s 2007 victory.
Past Champions
2016: Alex Noren (-14)
2015: Mark Leishman (-19)
2014: Danny Willett (-18)
2013: Thomas Bjorn (-20)
2012: Martin Kaymer (-18)
Top Outright Betting Odds
Louis Oosthuizen 14/1, Brandon Grace 14/1, Tyrell Hatton 16/1, Tommy Fleetwood 18/1, Charl Schwartzel 20/1
Value Picks to Watch
Chris Wood – To Win 40/1, To Place 17/2
Chris Wood’s recent form has been encouraging as he continues to battle back from injuries. He’s shown resilience here before, finishing 25th with neck problems and impressively coming third in 2015 despite severe dehydration. Strong performances at Wentworth and Qatar complement his skill set, and he’s motivated by upcoming Masters qualification and next season’s Ryder Cup prospects.
Victor Dubuisson – To Win 45/1, To Place 19/2
The mercurial Frenchman Victor Dubuisson may be unpredictable, but his history at this course and recent flashes of form make him an intriguing outsider. Despite a rough patch, his top-three finishes at the Alfred Dunhill Links and a T4 here last year suggest he shouldn’t be discounted.
Dylan Frittelli – To Win 50/1, To Place 11/1
Dylan Frittelli looks superbly priced at 50/1 considering his strong season display. Armed with length and a recent win at the Lyoness Open following a runner-up finish in China, plus a sensational second place behind Justin Rose in Turkey, Frittelli could be the dark horse of the tournament.
The Man to Beat – Ross Fisher 22/1, To Place 48/10
Ross Fisher commands attention with a winning blend of distance and accuracy off the tee, ideally suited for Gary Player Country Club. Consistently finishing near the top in events such as the WGC Mexico and Alfred Dunhill Links, Fisher seems poised to claim his sixth European Tour victory – it might just be his time.